South Africa: Part 2

The Wedding
   
About a year ago, A dear friend, Peggy, went for 3 months to South Africa where she had an incredible adventure. She went without a plan but a heart to meet people and spread the love of Jesus. She traveled into the villages, stayed with a variety of people and experienced both positive and negative aspects of this new culture with such joy.  During this three months, she met a man who was a true worshipper. Her initial attraction to him was due to this passionate love for Jesus she saw in him, and he noticed her as well. By the end of her summer, he had asked her out and they had been getting to know one another.   Before long, they were engaged.

Peggy and Leefa invited me to officiate their wedding ceremony, and I was honored and took very seriously the opportunity. Not knowing exactly what to expect, but having prayerfully considered it, I agreed.

My prayers for this couple are that they would grow in their love, not lean on human understanding, receive grace in abundance, grow as partners on fire for you Jesus, give them confidence and wisdom. I pray protection over them from the prevalent witchcraft in the country.

The wedding was on Saturday, July 29 in the mountains of Ficksburg, which is Free Stste of S Africa near the border of Lesotho. After much discussion and thought, they had mad the decision to have the ceremony in Ficksburg in order to be with Leefa's sick grandmother, mother, and two cousins (12 and 5).  It was simple, but lovely. The mountains behind us and a small lake. Right about sunset we returned to a BBQ celebration which was special, a cake and blessings ceremony. We enjoyed a perfectly clear starry night and it felt as if heaven was in attendance.

South Africa: Part I

     On July 23,   I went on an adventure with Jesus.  I planned to be with my friend who was marrying a S African man, encourage her, officiate her wedding and bring her inspiration and hopefulness and comfort from the Lord.   I hoped to be able to speak whatever necessary in my friend's life and that she would be able to hear what the Lord had to say.  I have such love for her. I began by running to my flight from Kansas City on the 21st, to a delay which caused me to need to stay the night in Atlanta and get to South Africa a day later than planned.   All this delay was not a problem for the Lord, who saw all beforehand. 

On July 24, I got on a plane to South Africa along with about 250 other passengers.  I met a missions team on the way, sat by a girl who works in the Peace Corps in Mozambique and another girl who was traveling to a special seminar for her area of scientific research.  

When I finally arrived on Tuesday evening, July 25, Peggy and Leefa picked me up from the airport and we took a train, a shuttle and another taxi to get to their home in Pretoria, South Africa from Johannesburg.  We stayed up that night until about 4:30 in the morning talking. 

July 26, Wed.  I met the pastor that Leefa had been mentored under in the beginning of his walk with the Lord and whom the Lord used to bring him the good news of salvation.  We had lunch with this pastor and discussed the upcoming wedding details, where we would have the wedding whether their church or in Ficksburg (Free State) where Leefa's mother and grandmother live.  It was an opportunity to really speak into this pastor's life heart to heart about ministry and pour into him.  I am believing great things for the pastor's ministry and believe that God will bring greater things in the years ahead than what was before as he obediently submits to the Lord.  It was a JOY to see how the Lord connected Peggy and Leefa with this pastor and will be neat to see how the Lord allows them to become ministerial partners.  

July 27-30.  The following days blended together very easily as Peggy exposed me to many cultural things and not so common cultural experiences such as eating rock, slugs, and multiple forms of transportation.  It was particularly hilarious when Peggy almost didn't get on the train with Leefa and I and 5 of us had to pull her up into the train so she wouldn't get left behind.  So much cultural adjustment and shock for Peggy right now and I am praying that she will become more comfortable in the next few months with the styles and differences of the people as well as the communication dynamics, learning how to be less direct as we are in our culture.  It was beautiful going with Peggy across the border of S Africa into another country, Lesotho.  The open markets were full of people, lots of straw hats and brooms being sold as well as "rock" this infamous treat to the people that is chock full of vitamins.  Unfortunately we deleted several awesome pictures. There was witchcraft evidence throughout the experience, herbal remedies all over.  During this time (I think on the 27th? We also tasted chicken gizzards on the open market which was very interesting.  We also ate this puffed sweetened corn (reminded me of cereal) and had a staple food item almost every meal called "Pop" which consists of a corn meal type grain that is cooked with water and made stiff to enjoy with other food items.  We also ate alot of ginger. 

Language:  Mesotho.  I learned two phrases  Joa Shua(ng)?  The ng is silent at the back of the throat at the end and the phrase means How are you?     I also learned "Libitu Lahow Oma(n)?" Which means what is your name? 

Most people spoke English.  We stayed for three days with Peggy and Leefa's grandma, mother, and two children Portia and Precious, 12 and 5.  It was very special to play with the children.  

There were people clearly in need in various places throughout.  There were smells of urine, smells in the city and lots of dust.  The people throw trash right on the street instead of trash cans which are somewhat sparse and there were lots of children around of different economic statuses that you could see throughout the town. 

I have so much more to say, but I will write more later.  God is so good.  The wedding was beautiful. I will tell you about the wedding in the next post!   There were also divine appointments throughout the time.  I will put those in part 3.  



It was very cold.  We left from 95 degrees weather to 65 degree weather there.  It was very cold.
 
Blessings!!! 

Obedience is the best way

The Lord is compassionate and gracious, He loves to show mercy and desires to show himself powerful in saving, not in destroying.    (c.f. Jonah 4:2, Neh. 9:17, 31, Exo. 34:6, Psalms 86:5,15, 103:8, 145:8, Joel 2:13, Numbers 14:18.)

However, the Lord will destroy all wickedness and no evil or injustice can be found in Him.  It is for injustice and sinful pride and evil that the perfection of this world was destroyed, but it was through Jesus Christ, God's only Son, that this perfection was restored and will be forevermore, praise be to Him.

It is only through Jesus Christ that God the Father of all Creation shows himself merciful, which is his great desire.  His desire is mercy not sacrifice, but that all would be made right and in correct standing.

How many times did God give the Israelites another chance.  Many times.    He said, "If my people who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray, then will I hear from heaven, and I will heal their land."

 He sacrificed all he had, his very own life in the blood of Jesus Christ, the spotless Son of God.  He was the only to live a sinless life.

The Bible says that "All who call upon the name of the Lord will be saved."  This made possible through Jesus.  He saved over 120,000 persons on that day that the people of Ninevah repented from their idolatry and sacrificed to the Father of all Creation, recognizing him.  He caused great injustice to be put to rest through his mercy, but He would have destroyed them, completely, had they not repented.

Our Father believes in his creation. He created us for himself, for his very own, and longs for that possession.  What became accursed was made right when Jesus became the curse for us, but we must believe in Him, forsaking all else.

It is the greatest insult to our Creator when we deny him, and it is a worse injustice than before to despise the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made on our behalf.  Only God can judge the injustice of those who have rejected him, but do not be one who turns aside instead of giving your all for him.   He deserves our all.

I'm willing

Willing to face rejection, willing to fight the fight of faith,  I'm willing to give up my reputation, willing to put aside fears, I tell doubt to go in Jesus' name, I am led by the Spirit.

Willing to place my deepest desires at the cross, to fight the fight of faith, I shod my feet with the good news of peace, laying down all dissention and picking of the Sword of the Spirit.  Willing to give up pride, to give up propriety and pick up the cross that was given me.

I'm willing,

Willing to say YES, no looking backwards, to forgive, to let go of shame, to let go of pride, and grab ahold of the thing that God has placed in my hands.

I'm willing...willing to take the harder road, to join the journey towards treasure in Him, treasure that can be found nowhere else.  I'm willing to put my heart in His hands.

I'm willing, willing to tread a new path, a different one from those I've previously traveled, willing by the grace of God to commit, for I commit myself wholly to Him who has stamped me upon His heart.  His way, not my own, this is the path I will follow.

I trust Him to mark the trees in the wilderness, leading me through the wild woods and the uncommon trail.  His love to keep me from all harm, from all weeds, from all danger.

I'm willing.  Willing to say Yes. I say YES to Him and to all He has directed.  His guidance forever leading me.

I dare to take this road. I join with him.  I believe, I believe.

 Lord,  I'm willing...Forsaking all others, I have chosen you.  Lead me to your "Yesses"

All of us unto ALL the WORLD

This means,  ... 

We start with who is around us.
   -Offer a kind word to the man on the street corner
  -Bring a cup of coffee to a co-worker going through a tough season
  -Pray for a distressed neighbor, friend, family member.
  -Go out of your way to meet a new person, greet them with a smile and ask about their story.
  -Allow God to shine through you in your day by serving, going above and beyond and being sensitive.

We continue to those outside our normal day to day encounters. Continue because it brings growth, continue because it is God's will that all know Him.
    -Participate in an evangelism event. 
    -Use your gifting to minister in a nursing home. (music, preaching, encouragement, praying, pre-approved gifts, listening ear/being a friend.)
   -Take note of shelters in your area and meet a need of the shelter. 
   -Organize a group to go pray for the sick in an ER, pray and fellowship with people waiting to get into a shelter.
   -Mentor a young person in the faith, encouraging their walk. 
   -Step out in faith in your community, at your church, and be an active participant, not a spectator.

Some will travel out of state or overseas....
     -Bringing a word in its appointed season is rich  Prov 25:11 "like apples of gold set in silver"
     -We must bring the good news given to us by Jesus Christ to all people ... for how will they believe unless they have heard?  Romans 10:14
     -A call will be confirmed and being called, some will just have to go.   

My prayer for all reading this, is that you would take this "ALL" VERY PERSONAL, for I was aiming it at YOU.  My prayer is that you would add your ideas, and act on them.  I also am challenged to step out in faith in my community, knowing it is a fruit that is eternal! 

My personal prayer is that all the world might know Him and that God in his good pleasure would choose to use me.  To use me here...with the clients I work with every day, AND to use me there in another country.  My whole life I have longed for nothing else than to go and I have felt His call. However, now I will live out this calling here, until He should send me again,....

That all may know Jesus Christ.

"Are we there yet?"

Recently,

As I have been seeking the Lord in my quiet time about everything He has put into to my heart to do, the desire to return overseas and begin to work towards fulfilling my grandmother's dream, and mine, for nearly 20 years now, I can't help but be disheartened from time to time from the wait, from the patience required of myself, and find myself continuously pressing on myself whether I am doing all I am capable of in preparation now.

I continue to throw out questions to the Lord such as, should I partner with this minister Lord, with this missionary Lord, go that way?!?

I long to fulfil my purpose and to see the children's home/center become a reality and have asked myself what the first steps to such an endeavor would be. I've been willing to join with others who are doing this work.

February 2 of 2016 was the 6th yr anniversary of my return stateside from Costa Rica where I had lived 2 years, with no intent to leave the foreign mission field. In these past 6 years, I wouldn't trade what God has taught me, about the difficult emotional struggles of children who've been abused in one way or another, about perseverance and in depth study, about research, about all the blessings I've been gifted, about so many hurting adults dealing with mental illness, and so much more. I could write a book about all I've learned and how God has shaped and developed me.

I've dreamed of working with homeless people, and guess what? I'm seeing them all the time, people without true purpose in need of an encounter with Jesus. If I can bring Jesus to them with my life and how its lived, its worth every day and every trial or misplaced dream.

The blog I wrote in February of 2011 about social work and missionary work remain my heart's desire. To bring justice to the poor, needy, the child and the woman in distress. I can see no other thing as what I was made for.

I imagined recently what it must have been like for the children of Israel, who had been given a dream, a big promise that they would be possessors of a rich, abundant land flowing with milk and honey, a land of rich fertile soil, where they would have plenty. I see that the parents were afraid to possess it, yet the Lord had already given it to them. Imagine how they must've longed for that land as they wandered through the wolderness,. Forty years!!!

But God was faithful to His promise, and they did arrive and possess that land. My God is faithful and fulfills his promises. My God is able!!

I have a dream, and maybe my faith is small, but I will arrive in the promised land according to God's good plan.

"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to the mountain, be removed and cast into the sea, and it will be done for you. "

Are we there yet?

-just a little longer, child, a little longer.

Who will go?

Who will go?

"The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few, ask then that he may send workers into the harvest field." 

Look, my friends,  Look at them.    50% of the displaced persons living inside of Syria are CHILDREN, according to https://www.usaid.gov/crisis/syria.    These are inside abandoned buildings, lucky if they can find food or water and if they do not get shot upon sight. Most have become displaced from other loved ones who have died.  1,000s upon 1,000s are fleeing the country, with many fleeing in the past 7 years.  

"Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginnings of sorrows." Matt. 24:7-8

The gospel continues on to express that many will be deceived and led away, will be betrayed, will be killed, will become cold and heartless, the one who endures to the end will be saved BUT

"this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all nations, …and then the end will come." Matt 24:14 

Now is the time my friends to reach out and embrace the displaced persons, those in crisis, those who are hurting…not to turn a cold shoulder. Turning a cold shoulder is an act of fear, not of love.  Jesus called us to reach out and love, do not be like the prophet said and harden your heart, and grow cold. 

We CANNOT, we MUST NOT ignore the plight of these broken people, for it is selfish, worldly and not worthy of a Christian. 

The Bible teaches, "They will know you are Christians by your love."  Love, not false love but the love that is true, gives to others, provides shelter for the abandoned and homeless, provides food for the starving and clothing for the naked. 

Jesus died for our freedom, He won the battle for souls for all eternity.  How the enemy would like to destroy, but God has given us an opportune time.  It is time for the harvest of souls, look at how they come by the groves out of the dark grasp of oppressive countries and places, how their religion has destroyed them. But Jesus came and gave his life as a perfect redeeming sacrifice to set them free.

It is an opportune time. If we have prayed for revival, let us embrace, let us get dirty and wet with the blood and sweat of others as we embrace them with open arms and provide in their time of need. 

You can NEVER OUTGIVE GOD!  It is not a time to hold back. 

So,

Who will go? Who will plead the case of the children, become a shelter for the widow, take up the cause of the teenager in distress?  

We cannot ignore the crisis before our eyes.  Jesus, please help us, strengthen your church send your church. 

Seasons

Life is so full of different kinds of seasons and times.

The beauty in this times is the way God delights to use each season to bring himself closer to us. He causes us to depend on Him in times of need, or in times when we have plenty. 

His voice is so precious, sweet and other times firm, strong, fearful.  His voice is at times silent. These times can be especially difficult, but we can know that in the midst of silence He is there.

He promises us that he will "never leave us nor forsake us."  He also promises that "if we seek Him, we will find Him."  Sometimes it is the silence that draws us into a place of deep inner calm and peace, a time of inner confidence.  We can stand on what we know in times of silence and continue believing for those things we cannot see.


The Seasons of Life are something I thank God for. "Stand firm, then my brothers, and having done all to stand. Do not throw away your confidence for it will be greatly rewarded."

Thank you for being a part of this journey. God richly bless you!!

Dreams, Visions and the Times of the Harvest

Dear friends,

This is the time of the harvest. It is beautiful that the Heavenly Father has chosen to reveal himself to us, mere children in need of much grace. I'm so honored by Him for his love and revelation.  It is my privilege to share this testimony for His glory. I am praying during this season for MORE dreams, MORE visions and REVELATION to MANY of who Jesus (Yahoshua) is and what His role really means for us on earth. How beautiful to belong :)  May Jesus be glorified.

Joel 2:27b-29
  "...and my people shall never again be put to shame. It shall come to pass afterwards, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions.²⁹ Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit."

He has been kind and gracious, and He has promised that we shall not be put to shame, for we are His people.  Because of the kindness of Yahwah, of the Lion of Judah, Emmanuel... 

The Vision... 
--This past Sunday, June 21, I saw Jesus come into our midst during worship at a small group in Ozark MO. We were worshiping the Lord, and Jesus came and stood in our center.  I almost jumped out of my seat in excitement. I was awed by his presence, his warmth his goodness. You could just melt in the goodness of Jesus there is nothing like it!  He is SO WORTHY!
--Then Jesus transformed in our midst into the Lion of Judah, who He is. He is over all, He surpasses understanding. Jesus was the Lion of Judah and he began to walk around the room. He walked to and fro with the most piercing eyes. He was glorified and honored by our praises. He then began to roar, and in his roar souls were set free from the enemy by whom they had been bound. He proclaimed them his as He had bought them by his own blood. Jesus paid for our lives as the perfect SPOTLESS lamb of God. 
--Jesus then showed himself to me in this moment as the lamb of God. He continued to look at the people as the lamb... a mighty lamb he was...mighty, strong and pure white. He then was slain there in our midst and this was just a mental picture...then He spoke and proclaimed, I purchased them and they are mine. They are my inheritance, my birthright. They are mine. 

Let it be so Almighty God, that Yours are RIGHTFULLY RESTORED to YOU.  THANK YOU JESUS for claiming me as yours. 

If you hear his voice, He claims you as his own. He will claim you and release you from captivity because He created you and He Loves you.  

Jesus proclaims "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life and No man comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

Jesus is the Way.  Friends, I believe that TODAY is the Day to turn to Him.  He looks for those who would seek Him and He makes a way to the Father. Our Father is the Creator God and He looked at His creation and said "it is good." He LOVES YOU!

Ask of Him, and He will be merciful and give you favor. He will show his hand and He will show you that the Time of the Harvest is NOW.  

I pray you are blessed and receive blessing from this testimony. May we always use wisdom in these things and be submitted to the Holy Spirit.  Be blessed friends. 

Learning to Rest

Storms are bound to come, along with trials. God promises to work in our lives, and He gives us the ability to overcome trials and situations, conflicts, misunderstandings. He promises "Whether in plenty or in want, ... I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  Phil4:13.

It has been wonderful to journey with God in these past several months and He has given me delightful opportunities.  It has been a growing opportunity to speak at a few different venues about stopping human trafficking and fighting against it on the local level. It has been delightful to go to Costa Rica and learn some new strategic methods of Spiritual Warfare, network with other leaders in the faith, make connections and receive instruction from the Lord.

Some of the instruction has been regretfully hard to bear.  I must admit that I have tended to be sort of a restless soul.  ... for those who know me, this goes without saying...

I like to work hard, to be ministering to others is one of my greatest delights and I love to helping people in general or giving to them.  I also become very passionate about justice, bringing justice to people...(not that I'm an expert at all.)

But a big thing that God is teaching me right now is to REST.  Rest is in more ways than one.  We face spiritual trials and adversity, but God has reminded me of my position in Him.

"I am the righteousness of Christ," "No evil shall overcome me which is not common to man" and
specifically that I am a daughter of the King of Kings...the King of the ages...which threatens the enemy.  Because it threatens Him, he fights, ... but I have the CHAMPION of champions fighting for me. THANK YOU JESUS.

God at times wants us to rest in him. To PAUSE, if you will and re-evaluate, stop what we're doing and make sure we are not doing it on our own, but that it flows out of what He has done in us.

REST:
1 Kings 5:4 "The LORD my God has given me rest on every side. There is no adversary or crisis."

Acts 9:31 "Then the churches had rest throughout..., and were edified, and walking in the fear of the LORD, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied."

Even Acts expresses that the church was multiplied through the comfort of the Holy Spirit, not of effort, but out of a time of rest and edification.

How AWESOME!

___________________________________________________________________________

A while back, I believe God spoke to me that he was fully healing me of anxiety. At this time, I have been proclaiming and testifying that it is true. This Restfulness and peace has been given to me as a gift of God and I must practice it as a discipline, to be full of Him and not get caught up as it says in Isaiah 8 "Do not get caught up in the conspiracies of the world..."  

It is easy to grow fearful when we see all the evil upon the earth and to grow anxious, but we have a GREAT HOPE and I have CONFIDENCE in God because His word teaches that Salvation has come. He says in Romans 8:24 that we hope for what we do not see, but in this our faith is strengthened and we are not to throw away our confidence, knowing that we wait for what will certainly be ours through our Lord Jesus Christ.

I'm healed from anxiety.  Praise God for this, I have known and believe that God healed me. The burdens of this world might bear you down or hold you down,... but Jesus paid it all. He is my SUPERHERO. 


________________________________________________________________________________


May God richly bless you today.
May you have peace in your soul, in your steps where you walk and may you be clothed with all righteousness, faith and truth. May love be a spring of living water from within you and may your mind be graced with revelation of your standing before the Maker, who loves us more than we can possibly imagine, even when we least deserve it.

Yours for the kingdom.

Here are some updates on my journey lately.

I haven't written a blog for a while.  I thought I would update some of the things I have been involved in this past year.  I am seeking God's direction in this next year as I move forward in all that he would have me to do this year.

If you read the biography about me, or even go through the past couple of years that I have had this blog, you will notice that I have a passion for children, the homeless,  for helping the vulnerable, the exploited and those who need to be rescued or need help.  I have been involved most recently with two different organizations seeking to fight human trafficking. I have felt called to learn, to work as a team, to be a light and a part of stopping the crime of sex trafficking in the Ozarks.  Tonight I had an opportunity to speak on the panel at the STAND Coalition's awareness general community event.  It was a great experience on many levels and a growing experience as well.   My involvement with both STAND Coalition and GO 61, Inc (another local agency combating human trafficking)  has been meaningful in so many ways. I have been able to work with key community leaders through these groups to bring education to the community, intervene. The key will be in working together to effect change in our communities and beyond.  

I graduated from MSU with my Masters in Social work in December of 2013.  I was awarded in May of 2013 an award for excellent research, which I had conducted specifically on Homeless Youth and Trafficking, in order to become more involved in the problem of sex trafficking in our community. As a result, I interviewed 5 different homeless youth who had been trafficked, that is "coerced, forced or frauded into commercial labor or sex acts" for profit of the pimp or trafficker.  I met youth who had been tricked into working for free, bringing huge profit to the "employer," these were moved across state lines to sell. I encountered youth who were still with their pimp and stated it was their boyfriend and they were in love with them, and I met youth who traded their bodies for basic needs such as food, shelter and clothing.  All of these are defined as human trafficking and their traffickers can be prosecuted.  

 I work with the James River Kids Chapel team at church, (see below pic with the "Club Journey" shirt). On Sundays, I host the services by interactive skits, worship leading, leading prayer and introducing the Children's Pastor or Bible Lesson Leader. I minister to girls ages 2nd to 5th grade on Wednesday nights having an opportunity to mentor them and be a friend and positive influence. Recently it has changed so that I have just 2nd-3rd graders. It is an important way I am able to share the good news, reach out to kids and their parents.

 I made several dozen sugar cookies, (which took way too many hours LOL) for Christmas gifts with the other social workers at CMH.  We gave them as gifts to the different departments of the Hospital. It has been a pleasure to work for CMH, a hospital with so much integrity, people of faith and who support social justice. The amount of support at work for my dream to return overseas and do mission work has been overwhelming.  When I began working there, I remember the interview, making it clear that I was looking at a 1-2 yr commitment. They still hired me! and have invested so much to make me a better person. I am still working on lots of areas.  I am so humbled by my failures, but grateful for the support of so many great people who God has placed in my path who support and believe with me for a return back to the mission field. As for me, I'm just waiting on God's perfect timing. . . . I will wait til its right. but I'm excited to return!

My beautiful family is doing wonderful.  My sister and brother-in-law had a rough year last yr due to some health difficulties, but I am believing for total healing for them both and I know its going to be a much better year...  My parents moved my grandpa into the house and it has been a transitional period for sure.  Change is good, and I'm so grateful for their big hearts and help to him.  I do know it makes things very busy around their house.  My younger sister is doing YWAM.  A huge change for her. 

 I will have to tell you more later.  You all have a wonderful night and God bless!

-Joanna Joy

"Do not think that I (Jesus) came to bring peace on earth..." Repent America.

It was in the spring of 2009. I was resting in my room during the time I was in Costa Rica, and praying about the time to come and God's will.

I slept and had a dream as follows:
-Pres. Obama was coming to speak in our chapel. The chapel was singing worship to God when he entered and sat in the back. He became frustrated and angry with the worship as we were praising Jesus.  He went outside and smoked a cigarette and then he came back in right as they were announcing him as our speaker and gave him praiseworthy words of encouragement. His smile was big and I heard his heart puff up and he was saying it his heart, "that's right, me. praise me. give applause for me. Its me." It was as if I heard his human heart be jealous to have the praise that belonged to God.  As he arose to speak, the Spirit of the Lord spoke loudly to me and said "I did not come to bring peace on earth but a sword, dividing the hearts of men."  Then the scene changed.
-I was one among FEW leaders in the street of a big city. (remember those old garbage cans that were metal and had those covers) We were lifting those covers above our head and shouting with thousands of people, starving, in the crowd with us. The FEW of us were shouting out to the governing leaders to give us food to eat. It was like mass chaos on the streets and the people were starving without enough to eat, while the governing leaders would not relent to give anything to us.

The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. May the Lord EMPOWER us through HIS SPIRIT to be the VOICE HE HAS CALLED US TO BE IN THIS HOUR.

Today, a few years later, I reflect on these dreams God has given me. I had another, I may share at a later time. The thing is,...these dreams are now put in motion.  America, we must turn to God, repent and seek after God's heart and give our praise to Jesus Christ who paid all the debt for us...not to ME ME ME. The dream has multi-facets, but the message is clear that we cannot obtain any type of salvation or lasting change from a human leader or from seeking after our own selfish desires. For if you will seek your own way, "Eat Drink and be Merry for Tomorrow You Die."

The War going on right now, is one of a great enemy claiming to PURGE from unrighteousness. The purpose of jihad is to bring people into what they consider the faith. If being a soldier of Allah is an indicator of  something dangerous, HOW ABOUT being a soldier of Christ. A term so popular in the '90s and when I was a little girl. We used to sing the popular song, the song by Carman called "God's got an Army" referring to being Warriors of Righteousness.

What are we to do?

insert:_______________________________________________________


"Be Strong in the Lord (Jesus Christ) and in the POWER OF HIS MIGHT, Put on the full armor of God, wherewith we can stand against the devil's schemes." Ephesians 6:10-11

The day is coming and is HERE where we must choose who we will serve. 
The people of Allah have chosen that through force and through dominion they will cut off anyone who does not choose Allah, and they believe that they are righteous in doing so.
-Wickedness does exist and in no way do I condone immorality, sexual sin, robbery, plundering, abuse, exploitation, the love of money. These things exist IN the fight which they are fighting, although the claims are to PURGE from these very things.
Can the enemy who is divided against himself stand? NO. His house will fall, and this is how we know that we have the Victory through the Lord Jesus Christ because His kingdom is established forever and he is not divided against himself. Do not fear evil, but overcome evil with good.

"If anyone lacks wisdom, He should ask of God, who gives freely to all without finding fault, and it will be given him." James 1:5

Let us be soberminded in this hour and pray.
I do cherish any of your words.

On the brink of something new

I can taste it, I can sense it...yet it is still to come.

On March 27, I will be taking the comprehensive exam which is a compilation of all the work I have done this past 3 years in preparation for social justice work in the mission field. I have learned many things about families, people, and the dynamics of working together to help others embrace who they are, develop their full potential, and be empowered to leave exploitative situations.  This comprehensive exam will be an example of a case which I will have 4 hours to take through the seven phases of the helping process.

My heart yearns and aches to see people transformed not for an earthly good, but for heavenly. The problems, injustices, poverty, lack of love, rich and poor, government and non-government funded programming will always be with us according to the order of this world, but my orders come from a HIGHER order.

The HIGHER order is where I want to be. To bring people to the feet of Jesus so that they can be touched by him and changed forever regardless of their earthly circumstances is the greatest cry of my heart.

I am praying about what that looks like for me, how can I be the witness that God has so graciously called me to be? How can I lead others so that they might experience His goodness, love and be transformed and freed?  I believe powers of this earth including internal meditations and other practices can only bring temporary or false freedom, but His freedom is eternal and has eternal reward.

I say I am on the brink of something new: I have seen doors open for work in Argentina, in West Africa, in India, in Latin America. I desire nothing more than that the Lord continues to confirm and direct my heart.

Please pray with me that I will diligently do the one and two things in front of me now, while urgently seeking the Lord for the things that will be after graduation.

Thank you all for your prayers.  Forever seeking His face.

The Deacon Who Preached...

As I sat in church this morning to a message about John the Baptist, I was struck by several things that John the Baptist did and DID NOT do.  He did not try to be someone he was not, nor did he have any pretense about being Elijah or the Prophet.  He recognized his ministry and His call to prepare the way for the coming of Messiah and he walked in that call. He was humble...Jesus thought of John the Baptist higher than John thought of himself.

A story was told about a man named John Egan. John was a church deacon who woke early one blizzard-like Sunday morning and almost didn't leave because the snow was so blistery outside, but it occurred to him that if he did not go... others would also not go. As an example, He felt it was important for him to be there so he got his snow gear on, said a word of prayer and headed over to the church.  That morning, twelve people had made it out to the church in the snow but the pastor was snowed in, and they had a young guest who was thirteen years old. They talked about canceling the service, but instead the deacon decided to get up and preach because they had made it out there.  He preached about 10 minutes. He had much to say but did not say it eloquently and in fact little was remembered about that message except the last  few minutes, when he looked the 13 yr old right in the eye pointed his finger at him and said, "Son, Look to Jesus..." Look to Jesus...
this 13 yr old boy gave did Look to Jesus and the light of the Son of God was revealed to him... He later became the renown Charles Spurgeon who preached to many.

This story startled me in service today and brought me to tears.  Again, I come to tears just thinking about it. If this deacon was faithful with what he had, gave the message to the best of his ability, even if his ability was slight...the Holy Spirit did the work!  The Holy Spirit works on our behalf. He asks us only to step out in faith and do our part to answer the need. I cried because I long to be faithful like that, to share the gospel with those who need it. I sense the urgency of the days we are living in, and though my words may not be eloquent, though not all may receive the message, the Holy Spirit says, "speak, share the truth, be my vessel." The times are so short, and I can't help but think...what if a loving hand extended speaks a thousand words, how is my life telling people, "Look to Jesus"?

It has never been simply about going on some foreign mission half way across the world, although I have had that on my heart for ages. It has never been simply about adventure, ultimate sacrifice,...Its about the day to day, its about people gaining an understanding of truth, its about choices... giving people a choice they did not understand to be in relationship with God. He's God...yet he wants relationship with us. not demanding us to be perfect, not demanding us...but asking us to take his Hand, to recognize Him, to follow Him..  I want nothing greater than this!

I feel called to "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every nation..." I don't feel like I "measure up" to this calling, but that does not matter. What matters is that I respond to the Holy Spirit as He leads and guides my heart regardless of the cost.

I want to be the kind of confident leader that can say with boldness, "Follow me, as I follow Christ." To live in such a way that I am not ashamed for others to follow that example. My God and my King,... Help me. I follow you!!!!

SIDENOTES: My thoughts on my last homework assignment

The emotions elicited by this past assignment in which we must analyze marriage and divorce and make an argument based on our research for how we would best counsel a couple considering divorce or having marital issues.... including every member of the family and how they are each involved brought some memories, the struggle of faith in practice, a realization of the knowledge the secular world has about the destruction of divorce, and how to separate oneself emotionally in order to stop damage.

“What used to be seen as a weakness of the flesh has mutated into a personal entitlement.” (William Doherty, 2006, Psychotherapy Networker in his Couples on the Brink)

Through research, scientists are coming to the conclusion that the ramifications of divorce make it destructive to all the individuals involved and that it would be better to try to work out the issues within the marriage before deciding to have a divorce. The Bible already gave us this advice before scientific research ever reached that point. From their claims in the 1970s that women needed to be "liberated" and "your choice for a divorce frees you," to the economic stability that women are now able to gain for themselves making them feel self sufficient, not in need of their husband's financial prowess, to today where they have discovered that divorce has long lasting negative effects when it is not ended upon civilly and that even a "good divorce" ended on positive terms will bring difficulties for the children and repercussions.

The Bible teaches that Love keeps no records of wrongs, bears long, is patient and kind. A reference point which would have greatly aided scientists in their insistence in scientific study to prove any such claims that the Bible would make. Their scientific research PROVES the wisdom of God. God doesn't ask people to stay married just so they would be miserable, but in his infinite wisdom wants the best for his children. Only few circumstances which research has shown make divorce reasonable and permissible, but the greatest love found in Christ seeks forgiveness and compassion. (Please don't misunderstand me, because I do not condone abuse or affairs both of which are Biblical grounds for divorce.)

Comments from article "Is Dating Dead?" by Sharon Jayson in USA Today issue 3-31-2011

Another comment I have deals with the lack of push towards manlihood or courage in our society today which gives youth easy access to everything, yet leaves them empty of anything worthwhile. The issue, “Is Dating Dead?” sounds an alarm about the rising lack of connection with other people that our culture is facing. When someone trains to pursue a prize, the training and pursuit is difficult, as it should be, but the prize made it worthwhile. Cheating themselves of the challenge, many young people report cheap sexual games without the actual fulfillment of pursuit, romance, and risk. Of course risk means hurt sometimes, but the risks were worth it especially if it means a fulfilling friendship and marriage at the end. The article also mentions a group of people whose bold statements about their virginity should be praised. There is a difference between those who are virgins by their choice to wait, and those who are virgins simply in the physiological sense because of other internet sexual encounters which cheaply fulfilled their desires.

How would Christ respond to such deprivation in our society which has things backwards??

The Finkenbinder legacy

Dear friends, I have written you once before about the life of a man who I call my great uncle, who paved the way for many doors of opportunity for me. I know that God has me on a journey, and I am not sure where it will end, but the ending of my great uncle "Hermano Pablo" was unfortunate as he had an accident that caused his death on Thursday afternoon. His reward he has laid up in heaven. His life was lived in honor of God, and Uncle Paul lived in such a way that many would be brought to Christ. I see in him that he would not consider himself greater than others, but rather a servant who simply said "yes, Lord" and watched the Lord take him on an adventure that he couldn't have imagined in his wildest dreams. His beloved wife Linda writes about the journey in two separate books, one most recent in my mind is "My life with Hermano Pablo," where she is open and vulnerable about the struggles that they went through in their faith throughout the years. Although in years where I may have few material posessions, I consider myself one of the wealthiest women because of the family that I have. My grandmother celebrates her 95th birthday on April 1st, and I hope to be present with her. She, like her brother-in-law Paul, has fought and lived a life worth following. I pray to be even half of the woman of God that my grandmother and uncle Paul are.

Thank you Heavenly Father for your mercy and guidance to one such as I! You are faithful!

Love to you all.
_________________________________________________________________
AG.org News & Information

Paul Finkenbinder, "Hermano Pablo," passes away
Fri, 27 Jan 2012 - 2:49 PM CST

Paul Edwin Finkenbinder, known throughout Latin America as "Hermano Pablo," passed away earlier this morning, Friday, January 27, 2012, in Irvine, California. He was 90.

On Wednesday, January 25, Finkenbinder celebrated his 70th anniversary with the love of his life, Linda, and with friends and family.

Finkenbinder, an AG minister, was born to missionary parents in Puerto Rico in September 1921. The missionary atmosphere of his home set the foundation for his life in ministry. He felt called by God to become a minister in 1938, at 17 years old. He married his wife, Linda, at age 20.

Their ministry began on a Spanish mission to New Mexico in 1942. The Finkenbinders and their son, Paul Jr., traveled to El Salvador as missionaries in 1943. For the first 13 years in El Salvador, Hermano Pablo taught in Bible schools, ministered in churches, directed youth outreaches and made himself available in many different areas of need all over the country.

Finkenbinder has preached in the towns and cities of Latin America for the past 70 years and thousands have accepted Christ as a result of his teaching.

In 1955, he began his first radio program, and in 1960, he produced prime-time Bible dramas for television that were reported to be the first regularly-scheduled Christian television broadcast outside of the United States. Since that time he had utilized mass evangelism - radio, television, print, crusades and special events.

In 1964 Finkenbinder returned to the United States and established Hermano Pablo, Inc. in Costa Mesa, California. Finkenbinder was best known for his radio and television program, "A message to the Conscience," which began that year. The program is now broadcast more than 6,400 times each day in 33 countries. Finkenbinder and his board of directors ensured the future of the "A Message to the Conscience" program by choosing his successor in 1996.

"Multiplied millions have been blessed by Paul's life and ministry," says Dr. George O. Wood, general superintendent of the Assemblies of God. "His voice lives on through Hermano Pablo ministries even though now his presence is with Jesus."

As soon as they are finalized, funeral arrangements will be posted at caringbridge.org/visit/hermanopablo.
Authors: Becca Dickson

Copyright ©2006 The General Council of the Assemblies of God, 1445 North Boonville Avenue, Springfield, MO 65802-1894

Devotion

I have been on an adventure that I have told a few of you about in which I am reading through the Bible from beginning to end. It is a new way of discovering the riches of God, rather than reading in different places. I just finished reading the book of Esther.

Esther has always been one of my favorite books. She was an ordinary girl about whom God had extraordinary plans and through whom Yahwah delivered his people Israel. She was taken from her simple peasant home right into the arms of the king of Babylon, and God caused great favor to be on her. She could have covered her head in shame because the youthfulness of her virginity was taken away from her, but instead she embraced the opportunity as God's will and became a refreshing joy in the harem of young virgins.

Behold the greatness and good love of our wonderful Maker who gave her wisdom beyond her youthfulness. She could have told all, but she heeded the wisdom of her uncle Mordecai and did not reveal her people. It took great courage for her to obey the king's command. She was also respectful and submissive to her uncle Mordecai, and although she feared her own death, she took strength in the embrace of her heavenly Abba and walked into the king's chambers uninvited awaiting her certain execution.

When she saw that the king was pleased to receive her, she did not become hasty in pleading for her people nor did she demand in anger for the king to deliver her, but took time to adore her king and pour blessing on his head. Once she had secured his favor, once she had found that he was certain about giving her anything she requested, then she took the opportune time to plead for her life and that of her family.

Such wisdom and courage who can find!! Queen Esther (the young maiden Haddassah) is still celebrated to this day among the Israelites in exile who were rescued by God's great hand through the queen. Every 12th month on the 15th day, they remember how God had mercy on them through her and they celebrate by giving of gifts to the poor and to their neighbors. This holiday is called Purim.

I am thankful for the favored people of Israel. Without their deliverance, would any one of us be delivered? Yet through this people has arisen the Son of God Most High and He was delivered into the hands of men unto death, but God rose him again! I believe that through Israel is my inheritance and have heard my loving Abba say my name. He knows me, and has put his banner over me (a Gentile no less).

In the Bible it says that God has chosen a people who were not a people. How magnificent is His name in all the earth, and Blessed is the King of Israel who has become Lord of my heart over all the earth!

ALthough Israel was God's chosen people, through the Messiah grace and forgiveness has been extended to any people group. I recognize who Israel is, AND I also recognize who I am.

Thank you Jesus Christ for saving me. I am devoted to you.

Love you friends.

Re: The Culture War

My dear friends,

To where or whom do you trace your heritage? We are living in a time of crossing cultures every time you get on the internet. Every time you step outside your doors and into the grocery store, the United States of America is full of diverse cultural values and systems.

We have been taught our history in grade school, and we believe without question that the stories are our valid true history, but many have brought questions out today. Many have researched different tales. Stories that were left untold about the Native Americans who the Europeans encountered when they arrived.

Our history is based on our pioneers. The frontier people who courageously went out on the queen's commission unsure if they would arrive or not. Colombus had a vision and a mission, and his name was written in history as a result of his passion and fervent effort.

However, we miss a huge part of what really happened in the land we call home. Our homeland had a people, in fact, had several peoples in it already. We have never questioned them as to whether they were the natives of this land or not, however, some new theories bring those questions to the front.

Could others have reached the Americas before the European and Spanish settlers and conquistadores? Could there be Asians, Turkish, other groups?

The beauty of this diverse nation has started and been destined long before it happened. The people who arrived here were people of passion, of vision and of great courage. Mysteries that are held in this land may never be uncovered.

Comments are welcomed! :)

By what do you measure a person?

"Whoever takes my words and lives by them..." It is not he who hears the words but he that acts on them... Luke 8:21,

Jesus has a lot to say about how we offer and live our lives. We can be full of study, much learning, and continuously found in the place of worship desiring and longing to understand His teachings.

However what good does it do me or you, should we hear these words and not live according to them? Romans 10:17

When is the last time we have gone out and given our possessions to the poor, helped to set a captive person free, given of our time in prayer or our food in fasting for the needs of those around us?

"Whoever gives even a cup of cold water to the least of these in My Name, He does it unto me...and He who refuses water to one of these little ones...He refuses Me."
(in Matthew 10:42, Matthew 25:43-45)


What we do, do we do it to gain status? To gain some sort of earthly recognition? Are we free with what our Father has given to us, or do we hold onto it with our hands and try to keep things for ourselves?

"Let not your deeds be seen before men, that they might glorify you, but let not your right hand know what your left hand is doing... that your good deeds might be seen by your Father in heaven..."
(Matthew 5:16,42,46, and 6:3)

The good that I do is not measurable when compared to the Beloved, He completes us and we are not good without Him nor can we know good without him. All my own shortsighted righteous deeds are to him described as dung, worse, as my period blood...to disgusting to even mention. Isaiah 64

Without His power, there is nothing. How we need Him, How we must search for him...

I long to serve him, and have dedicated my life to Him.

How can a true follower after Christ turn a cold shoulder to anyone who is in need?

Of theological opinions and of much knowledge, ... let God be the judge, but

Blessed is He who is found working when His Master comes... doing as He did, bringing joy and comfort to those who are in need. This life is so short, and we have such privilege, such joy ...and no fear in death... This means we must live as if we have EVERYTHING TO GIVE... and NOTHING TO LOSE.

Loving you.

Why do I aspire to do social work on the mission field?

For the safety of little children like this one. Knowing that this little boy has two parents who love and provide for him is important. This child will have the ability to grow up in an environment with nurture, food and clothing, and where he has the security to develop and experience life to the full because his first basic emotional and physical needs are met in a stable home.

I aspire to provide a special caring companionship for the elderly who have lost so much and feel so alone. I am passionate that the people need to see how valuable and important their elderly are. I would love to help a downtrodden or sad elderly person find opportunities and bring life to those around them, while releasing positive endorphins to strengthen them as well.

I aspire to be a mentor to young preteen girls, helping them to set boundaries in relationships and in life, and helping them with different issues in their families and lives. I also believe that each one of these young girls need to feel safe, have education and food as well as an evironment that allows them self respect. Being a missional social worker will provide me many opportunities and challenges in the spiritual, physical and emotional well being of youth like these.


Please friends, pray with me, as I should hear in two weeks whether or not Missouri State University accepts me into their program. I believe firmly that God has directed me to this place. It will not be easy, but I am excited to take the tools I will learn at MSU to places on the streets where homeless children and elderly are helpless, voiceless, needy. I put my dreams into God's care, because I know only HE can make the right things fall into place.

Blessings dear brothers and sisters.
Love you.